when keeping track of my bench press weights and goals, should i include the weight of the bar itself, or only the weights?
for example, i can only bench press 14 pounds in weight on a 45 pound bar. i do 6 sets of 10. how should i count this?

Generally a standard EZ bar weighs between 30-35lb. A standard Olympic barbell weighs 45lb although it is fairly common to find 55lb bars at many powerlifting gyms. You might also come come across what's known as a Texas Deadlift Bar in some of the Powerlifting/strength gyms in the States; it's designed to be stronger although it still weighs the same as a regular Olympic bar.

As Robert mentioned, the weight of the bar should be counted for your lifts.

Mini Forklift Ⓥ wrote:Generally a standard EZ bar weighs between 30-35lb. A standard Olympic barbell weighs 45lb although it is fairly common to find 55lb bars at many powerlifting gyms. You might also come come across what's known as a Texas Deadlift Bar in some of the Powerlifting/strength gyms in the States; it's designed to be stronger although it still weighs the same as a regular Olympic bar.

As Robert mentioned, the weight of the bar should be counted for your lifts.